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Portable ME-System Manual
Portable ME16-System
Portable ME32-System
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted without the express written permission
of Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH.
While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this document, the publisher and the author
assume no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of information
contained in this document or from the use of programs and source code that may accompany it. In no
event shall the publisher and the author be liable for any loss of profit or any other commercial damage
caused or alleged to have been caused directly or indirectly by this document.
© 2014 Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH. All rights reserved.
Printed: 04. 03. 2014
Multi Channel Systems
MCS GmbH
Aspenhaustraße 21
72770 Reutlingen
Germany
Fon
+49-71 21-90 92 5 - 0
Fax
+49-71 21-90 92 5 -11
[email protected]
www.multichannelsystems.com
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Products that are referred to
in this document may be either trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective holders and
should be noted as such. The publisher and the author make no claim
to these trademark.
Table of Contents
1 1.1 Introduction
About this Manual
1 1 2 2.1 2.2 2.3 Important Safety Advice
Important Safety Advice
Guarantee and Liability
Operator's Obligations
3 3 4 4 3 3.1 3.2 Welcome to the ME-System
ME Product Line
Portable ME-System
5 5 6 4 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 Software Installation
System requirements
Recommended BIOS settings
MC_Rack Installation
Driver Installation
Setting up MC_Rack
7 7 7 8 8 9 5 5.1 5.3 The Portable ME-System
The Portable ME16-System
5.1.1 Front Panel
5.1.2 Rear Panel
The Portable ME32-System
5.2.1 Front Panel
5.2.2 Rear Panel
Setting Up and Connecting the Portable ME-System
11 11 11 12 14 14 15 17 6 6.1 6.2 6.3 System Components
Integrated Filter Amplifiers (FA)
Integrated Data Acquisition
Digital Input / Output, System Synchronization
19 19 20 21 7 7.1 7.2 Troubleshooting
No Computer Connection / No Recording Possible
Triggering / Digital Input does not Work
23 23 24 8 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 8.6 Appendix
Technical Support
Technical Specifications
Pin Layout Portable ME16-System
Pin Layout Portable ME32-System
Additional Analog Input
Contact Information
25 25 26 27 30 33 34 9 Index
35 5.2 iii
1
Introduction
1.1
About this Manual
It is assumed that you already have a basic understanding of technical and software terms. No special skills
are required to read this manual.
If you are using the device for the first time, please read the Important Safety Advice before installing
the hardware and software, where you will find important information about the installation and first
steps.
The device and the software are part of an ongoing developmental process. Please understand that the
provided documentation is not always up to date. The latest information can be found in the Help.
Check also the MCS web site (www.multichannelsystems.com) for downloading up-to-date manuals
and help files.
1
2
Important Safety Advice
2.1
Important Safety Advice
Warning: Make sure to read the following advice prior to installation or use of the device and the
software. If you do not fulfill all requirements stated below, this may lead to malfunctions or breakage
of connected hardware, or even fatal injuries.
Warning: Always obey the rules of local regulations and laws. Only qualified personnel should be allowed
to perform laboratory work. Work according to good laboratory practice to obtain best results and to
minimize risks.
The product has been built to the state of the art and in accordance with recognized safety engineering
rules. The device may only

be used for its intended purpose;

be used when in a perfect condition.

Improper use could lead to serious, even fatal injuries to the user or third parties and damage to the device
itself or other material damage.
Warning: The device and the software are not intended for medical uses and must not be used on
humans.
Malfunctions which could impair safety should be rectified immediately.
High Voltage
Electrical cords must be properly laid and installed. The length and quality of the cords must
be in accordance with local provisions.
Only qualified technicians may work on the electrical system. It is essential that the accident prevention
regulations and those of the employers' liability associations are observed.

Each time before starting up, make sure that the power supply agrees with the specifications
of the product.

Check the power cord for damage each time the site is changed. Damaged power cords should
be replaced immediately and may never be reused.

Check the leads for damage. Damaged leads should be replaced immediately and may never
be reused.

Do not try to insert anything sharp or metallic into the vents or the case.

Liquids may cause short circuits or other damage. Always keep the device and the power cords dry.
Do not handle it with wet hands.
Requirements for the installation

Make sure that the device is not exposed to direct sunlight. Do not place anything on top of the device,
and do not place it on top of another heat producing device, so that the air can circulate freely.
3
Portable ME-System Manual
2.2
Guarantee and Liability
The General conditions of sale and delivery of Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH always apply.
The operator will receive these no later than on conclusion of the contract.
Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH makes no guarantee as to the accuracy of any and all tests and data
generated by the use of the device or the software. It is up to the user to use good laboratory practice to
establish the validity of his / her findings.
Guarantee and liability claims in the event of injury or material damage are excluded when they are the
result of one of the following.

Improper use of the device.

Improper installation, commissioning, operation or maintenance of the device.

Operating the device when the safety and protective devices are defective and / or inoperable.

Non-observance of the instructions in the manual with regard to transport, storage, installation,
commissioning, operation or maintenance of the device.

Unauthorized structural alterations to the device.

Unauthorized modifications to the system settings.

Inadequate monitoring of device components subject to wear.

Improperly executed and unauthorized repairs.

Unauthorized opening of the device or its components.

Catastrophic events due to the effect of foreign bodies or acts of God.
2.3
Operator's Obligations
The operator is obliged to allow only persons to work on the device, who

are familiar with the safety at work and accident prevention regulations and have been
instructed how to use the device;

are professionally qualified or have specialist knowledge and training and have received instruction
in the use of the device;

have read and understood the chapter on safety and the warning instructions in this manual
and confirmed this with their signature.
It must be monitored at regular intervals that the operating personnel are working safely.
Personnel still undergoing training may only work on the device under the supervision
of an experienced person.
4
3
Welcome to the ME-System
3.1
ME Product Line
With the ME (microelectrode) and STG (stimulus generator) product lines, Multi Channel Systems provides
complete solutions for stimulation, recording, and data acquisition from up to 256 channels, data analysis
and export.
All ME products are intended for extracellular electrophysiological recordings in vivo and special in vitro
applications. Typical applications include simultaneous spike and local field potential recording; multi-unit
and single-unit recordings from animals, for example NeuroNexus probes recordings. ME-Systems with
separate data acquisition amplifiers are available for maximum flexibility in combining different
components, while the USB-ME-FAI-Systems and the Portable ME-Systems are the most compact options
available.
The USB-ME-FAI-Systems are the first of a new generation of universal recording systems that do not
need an external data acquisition. The USB-ME16 / 32-FAI-Systems are very compact and portable standalone solutions. Filter amplifiers and data acquisition are integrated in one small device. The digitally
converted electrode signals are transmitted to any computer via universal serial bus (High Speed USB 2.0).
The miniature preamplifier headstages are available with 8 or 32 channels.
The Portable-ME Systems of the second generation are functionally identical to the USB-ME-FAI-Systems.
However, they feature smaller improved headstage amplifiers with the widely used Omnetics connectors to
further minimize size and weight.
This manual will describe the Portable-ME Systems only. Separate manuals are available for the
USB-ME-FAI-Systems. Please make sure that you have carefully studied the documentation on the single
components before setting up your system. Hardcopies of all manuals are shipped with the system.
Updated versions can also be downloaded from the MCS web site.
Components of the ME-Systems
Product:
Preamplifier
USB-ME16-FAI-System
2 x 8-channel miniature preamplifiers (MPA8I)
USB-ME32-FAI-System
4 x 8-channel miniature preamplifiers (MPA8I)
– or –
1 x 32-channel miniature preamplifier (MPA32I)
Portable ME16-System
2 x 8-channel miniature preamplifiers (MPA8I)
– or –
1 x 16-channel micro preamplifier (μPA16)
Portable ME32-System
2 x 16-channel micro preamplifier (μPA16)
– or –
1 x 32-channel micro preamplifier (μPA32)
5
Portable ME-System Manual
3.2 Portable ME-System
The Portable ME-Systems are compact and lightweight. They feature an integrated 16- or 32-channel filter
amplifier and data acquisition. The digitally converted electrode signals are transmitted to the connected
computer via USB 2.0 High Speed. The micro preamplifiers are available with 16 or 32 channels.
Two miniature preamplifiers MPA8I – OR – one micro preamplifier μPA16 are part of the Portable
ME16-System. Two micro preamplifiers μPA16 – OR – one micro preamplifier μPA32 are part of the
Portable ME32-System.
The digitally converted electrode signals are transmitted to the connected computer via universal serial bus
(High Speed USB 2.0). Thus, it is possible to use any computer as a data acquisition computer, also
a laptop. The size of the complete system is small enough to fit into a laptop bag together with the
computer. Data is recorded, graphed, analyzed, and reviewed with the powerful and easy-to-use MC_Rack
program. You can export the data in standard formats to other programs with MC_DataTool.
COMTHE PORTABLE ME-SYSTEM
6
Software Installation
4
Software Installation
Please check the system requirements before you install the MC_Rack software. Multi Channel Systems
MCS GmbH cannot guarantee that the software works properly if these requirements are not fulfilled.
Please see the MC_Rack help or manual for more information. It is recommended that you check the
MCS web site for software updates on a regular basis.
4.1
System requirements
Software: One of the following Microsoft Windows ® operating systems is required: Windows 8.1,
Windows 7, VISTA or XP (English and German versions supported) with the NT file system (NTFS).
Other language versions may lead to software errors.
Hardware: (Not required for offline analysis or demo mode) The data acquisition board integrated in
the Portable ME-System. If no Portable ME-System is present, MC_Rack opens in a simulation mode.
A computer with low performance may lead to performance limits more often; therefore, MCS
recommends an up-to-date computer optionally with a separate hard disk. Please note that there are
sometimes hardware incompatibilities of the Portable ME-System and computer components; or that
an inappropriate computer power supply may lead to artifact signals. Please contact your local retailer
for more information on recommended computer hardware.
Important: You need to have installed the latest Portable ME-System driver to operate the Portable
ME-System, which is automatically installed with MC_Rack. The installation may be invalid if the Portable
ME-System does not respond. Please contact Multi Channel Systems or your local retailer in this case.
4.2
Recommended BIOS settings
Recommended operating system settings
The following automatic services of the Windows operating system interfere with the data storage on the
hard disk and can lead to severe performance limits in MC_Rack. These routines were designed for use on
office computers, but are not very useful for a data acquisition computer.

Turn off Screensaver.

Turn off Windows Indexing Service.

Manual management of automatic Windows Update.

Power Options: Power scheme: Never turn off monitor, hard disk and system standby.

It is also not recommended to run any applications in the background when using MC_Rack.
Remove all applications from the Autostart folder.

Be careful when using a Virus Scanner. These programs are known to disturb MC_Rack,
and even data loss may occur.
7
Portable ME-System Manual
4.3 MC_Rack Installation
Download the latest version of MC_Rack form the Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH web site
at http://www.multichannelsystems.com/software/mc-rack. Click the MC_Rack_Setup.exe file and follow
the instructions of the installer. It is recommended to use a different hard drive or partition for the
operating system and data storage. Please check the web site on a regular basis for free upgrades.
4.4 Driver Installation
The Portable ME-System is a plug and play device. The driver is automatically installed together with
the MC_Rack program. Please install MC_Rack before you connect the Portable ME-System.
Important: Please make sure that you have full control over your computer as an administrator.
Otherwise, it is possible that the installed hardware does not work properly.
It is not recommended to run any applications in the background when using MC_Rack. Remove all
applications from the Autostart folder.
If MC_Rack had already been installed on the computer before the hardware was connected, the operating
system needs to load the driver once. After this procedure, the Portable ME-System will be automatically
recognized by the operating system.
1. Connect the Portable ME-System to the USB port of the data acquisition computer.
The "Found New Hardware Wizard" is displayed.
2. Choose the option "No, not this time” and continue with "Next".
3. Choose the option “Install the software automatically (recommended)” and continue with "Next".
4. The Wizard will automatically find the appropriate Portable ME-System driver. Continue with "Next".
5. The driver installation is finished.
8
Software Installation
4.5
Setting up MC_Rack
Please refer to the MC_Rack manual for more information.
Start MC_Rack. Click "Data Source Setup" on the "Edit" menu. In "Channel Layout" dialog select
USB-MEA from the left drop down menu and USB-ME from the right drop down menu. Please select
1-dimensional in "Source Layout" and define the number of channels. If you need digital input channel,
enable the respective check box.
MC_Rack now recognizes the Portable-ME System as data source. For further instructions how to use
he MC_Rack software please refer to the respective manual and help files available on the web site and
as online help in MC_Rack.
9
5
The Portable ME-System
5.1
The Portable ME16-System
The Portable ME16-System with integrated 16-channel filter amplifier and integrated data acquisition
with A / D converter includes two 8-channel miniature preamplifiers (MPA8I) or one 16-channel micro
preamplifier (μPA16). The MPA8Is or the μPAs are connected to the microelectrode probes to provide
the initial tenfold amplification stage. You can contact standard microelectrodes such as probes from
NeuroNexus directly without the need of any adapter in many cases. Adapters are available as accessories.
Custom adapters are available on demand.
Data is recorded, graphed, analyzed, and reviewed with the powerful and easy-to-use MC_Rack program.
You can export the data in standard formats to other programs with MC_DataTool software.
The Portable ME16-System can be used either with two MPA8Is - or - with one μPA16. The device
is preconfigured by Multi Channel Systems and cannot be modified by the user. If you like to change
the preconfiguration, please contact MCS: www.multichannelsystems.com
5.1.1
Front Panel
2 x Analog Input for MPA8I
On the left side when looking directly on the front panel of the Portable ME16-System two analog inputs
(female D-SUB 15 connector) are available for two miniature preamplifiers MPA8I. The upper one is for
MC_Rack software channel 1 to 8, the lower one is for channel 9 to 16. Please read the MPA8I manual
for setting up the MPA8I.
11
Portable ME-System Manual
1 x Analog Input for μPA16. Additionally is on the right side of the front panel of the Portable ME16System one analog input (female D-SUB 26 connector) for a micro preamplifier μPA16 available. Please read
the μPA16+μPA32 manual for setting up the μPA16.
Note: Only the MPA8I inputs - or - the μPA16 input can be used at a time, as they connect to the same
channels on the filter amplifier.
Power LED
The power LED should light up as soon as the system is connected to the power supply and the I / O toggle
switch at the rear panel is switched to status "I = On".
5.1.2
Rear Panel
Note: Using a USB hub for connecting the Portable ME16-System to the computer is not recommended.
The system needs a broad bandwidth for the data transmission. Recording might not be possible, especially
if a second device that sends or receives continuous data streams, for example, a web cam or USB speakers,
is connected to the same USB port.
Warning: Please read the separate manuals of all devices before installation, especially the warnings
and safety information. Make sure all devices are switched off before you connect them to the power
supply. Damage to the devices and even fatal injuries may result from improper installation or use.
DIGITAL IN / OUT
A Digital IN / OUT for 16 digital in- and output bits is available (68-pin MCS standard connector). The Digital
IN / OUT connection accepts or generates standard TTL signals. A TTL pulse is defined as a digital signal for
communication between two devices. A voltage between 0 V and 0.8 V is considered as a logical state of
0 (LOW), and a voltage between 2 V and 5 V means 1 (HIGH).
The Digital OUT allows generating a digital signal with up to 16 bits and read it out. You can utilize this
digital signal to control and synchronize other devices with the Portable ME16-System. Bit 0 of the Digital
OUT is separated and available as Lemo connector DIG OUT D0. Please read chapter "Pin Layout" (Digital
IN / OUT connector) in the Appendix for more information.
The Digital IN can be used to record additional information from external devices as a 16-bit encoded
number. The Digital IN is most often used to trigger recordings with a TTL signal from a stimulator.
One bit of the DIG OUT and DIG IN, respectively, are directly accessible via Lemo connectors. If you need
all bits, a Di/o box is available which provides a BNC connector for each bit
(http://www.multichannelsystems.com/products/dio).
12
The Portable ME-System
The 16 bit digital input channels is a stream of 16-bit values. The state of each bit (0 -15) can be controlled
separately, the state can be HIGH (1) or LOW (0). Standard TTL signals are accepted as input signals on the
digital inputs. Unused input bits, which have an undefined state, should be masked in the Trigger Detector
of MC_Rack.
Warning: A voltage that is higher than +5 Volts or lower than 0 Volts, that is, a negative voltage,
applied to the digital input would destroy the electronics. Make sure that you apply only TTL pulses
(0 - 5 V) to the digital inputs.
DIG OUT D0
The Bit 0 of the Digital OUT D0 is also accessible independently from the 68-pin Digital IN / OUT connector.
The digital output channel D0 is generally used for synchronizing the Portable ME16-System with a stimulus
generator, or with another data acquisition system, for example, an imaging or a patch clamp system. The
DIG OUT D0 generates standard TTL pulses.
DIG IN D0
The Bit 0 of the Digital IN D0 is parallel to Bit 0 of the DIG OUT independently available from the 68-pin
Digital IN / OUT connector. The digital input channel D0 is generally used for synchronizing the Portable
ME16-System with another device, or with another data acquisition system, for example, an imaging or
a patch clamp system. The DIG IN D0 accepts standard TTL pulses.
AUDIO
To the AUDIO OUT (3.5 mm phone jack) you can connect an audio system to make the electrical activity
audible. In contrast to the sound tool of MC_Rack, this audio output is real-time. There is almost no time
delay between the detection of a signal by the recording electrode and the corresponding sound.
Headphones or a speaker can be connected directly to the AUDIO OUT. Two channels can be converted
into sound (Stereo). The real-time audio output can be configured in the data source tool of MC_Rack.
Please refer to the MC_Rack manual for details.
USB
The USB connector is used to transfer the digitized data from all data channels and the additional digital
channels to any connected data acquisition computer via USB high speed 2.0 (type A - mini B) cable.
POWER IN
Connect here the power supply unit. This power supply powers the Portable ME16-System main unit only.
The device needs 12 V and 1.1 A / ~13 W.
I/O
Toggle switch for turning the device on and off. The power LED on the front panel should light up as soon
as the system is connected to the power supply and the I / O toggle switch is switched to status "I = On".
GROUND
If an additional ground connection is needed, you can connect this plug with an external ground using
a standard common jack (4 mm)
13
Portable ME-System Manual
5.2
The Portable ME32-System
The Portable ME32-System with integrated 32-channel filter amplifier and integrated data acquisition with
A / D converter includes two 16-channel micro preamplifiers (μPA16) or one 32-channel micro preamplifier
(μPA32). The μPAs are connected to the microelectrode probes to provide the initial tenfold amplification
stage. You can contact standard microelectrodes such as probes from NeuroNexus directly without the
need of any adapter in many cases. Adapters are available as accessories. Custom adapters are available
on demand.
Data is recorded, graphed, analyzed, and reviewed with the powerful and easy-to-use MC_Rack program.
You can export the data in standard formats to other programs with MC_DataTool software.
The Portable ME32-Sytem can be used either with two μPA16s - or - with one μPA32. The device
is preconfigured by Multi Channel Systems and cannot be modified by the user! If you like to change
the preconfiguration, please contact MCS www.multichannelsystems.com
5.2.1
Front Panel
2 x Analog Input for μPA16
On the left side when looking directly on the front panel of the Portable ME32-System two analog inputs
for two micro preamplifiers μPA16 (female D-SUB 26 connector) are available. The upper one is for
MC_Rack software channel 1 to 16, the lower one is for channel 17 to 32. Please read the μPA16+μPA32
Manual for setting up the μPA16.
14
The Portable ME-System
1 x Analog Input for μPA32
Additionally is on the right side of the front panel of the Portable ME32-System one analog input (female
D-SUB 44 connector) for a micro preamplifier μPA16 available. Please read the μPA16+32 Manual for
setting up the μPA16.
Note: Only the MPA8I inputs - or - the μPA16 input can be used at a time, as they connect to the same
channels on the filter amplifier.
Power LED
The power LED should light up as soon as the system is connected to the power supply and
the I / O toggle switch on the rear panel is switched to status "I = On".
5.2.2
Rear Panel
Note: Using a USB hub for connecting the Portable ME16-System to the computer is not recommended.
The system needs a broad bandwidth for the data transmission. Recording might not be possible, especially
if a second device that sends or receives continuous data streams, for example, a web cam or USB speakers,
is connected to the same USB port.
Warning: Please read the separate manuals of all devices before installation, especially the warnings
and safety information. Make sure all devices are switched off before you connect them to the power
supply. Damage to the devices and even fatal injuries may result from improper installation or use.
DIGITAL IN / OUT
A Digital IN / OUT for 16 digital in- and output bits is available (68-pin MCS standard connector). The Digital
IN / OUT connection accepts or generates standard TTL signals. A TTL pulse is defined as a digital signal for
communication between two devices. A voltage between 0 V and 0.8 V is considered as a logical state of
0 (LOW), and a voltage between 2 V and 5 V means 1 (HIGH).
The Digital OUT allows generating a digital signal with up to 16 bits and read it out. You can utilize this
digital signal to control and synchronize other devices with the Portable ME16-System. Bit 0 of the Digital
OUT is separated and available as Lemo connector DIG OUT D0.. Please read chapter "Pin Layout" (Digital
IN / OUT connector) in the Appendix for more information.
The Digital IN can be used to record additional information from external devices as a 16-bit encoded
number. The Digital IN is most often used to trigger recordings with a TTL signal from a stimulator.
One bit of the DIG OUT and DIG IN, respectively, are directly accessible via Lemo connectors. If you need
all bits, a Di/o box is available which provides a BNC connector for each bit
(http://www.multichannelsystems.com/products/dio).
15
Portable ME-System Manual
The 16 bit digital input channels is a stream of 16-bit values. The state of each bit (0 -15) can be controlled
separately, the state can be HIGH (1) or LOW (0). Standard TTL signals are accepted as input signals on the
digital inputs. Unused input bits, which have an undefined state, should be masked in the Trigger Detector
of MC_Rack.
Warning: A voltage that is higher than +5 Volts or lower than 0 Volts, that is, a negative voltage,
applied to the digital input would destroy the electronics. Make sure that you apply only TTL pulses
(0 - 5 V) to the digital inputs.
DIG OUT D0
The Bit 0 of the Digital OUT D0 is also accessible independently from the 68-pin Digital IN / OUT connector.
The digital output channel D0 is generally used for synchronizing the Portable ME32-System with a stimulus
generator, or with another data acquisition system, for example, an imaging or a patch clamp system. The
DIG OUT D0 generates standard TTL pulses.
DIG IN D0
The Bit 0 of the Digital IN D0 is parallel to Bit 0 of the DIG OUT independently available from the 68-pin
Digital IN / OUT connector. The digital input channel D0 is generally used for synchronizing the Portable
ME32-System with another device, or with another data acquisition system, for example, an imaging or
a patch clamp system. The DIG IN D0 accepts standard TTL pulses.
AUDIO
To the AUDIO OUT (3.5 mm phone jack) you can connect an audio system to make the electrical activity
audible. In contrast to the sound tool of MC_Rack, this audio output is real-time. There is almost no time
delay between the detection of a signal by the recording electrode and the corresponding sound.
Headphones or a speaker can be connected directly to the AUDIO OUT. Two channels can be converted
into sound (Stereo). The real-time audio output can be configured in the data source tool of MC_Rack.
Please refer to the MC_Rack manual for details.
USB
The USB connector is used to transfer the digitized data from all data channels and the additional digital
channels to any connected data acquisition computer via USB high speed 2.0 (type A - mini B) cable.
POWER IN
Connect here the power supply unit. This power supply powers the Portable ME32-System main unit only.
The device needs 12 V and 1.1 A / ~13 W.
I/O
Toggle switch for turning the device on and off. The power LED on the front panel should light up as soon
as the system is connected to the power supply and the I / O toggle switch is switched to status "I = On".
GROUND
If an additional ground connection is needed, you can connect this plug with an external ground using
a standard common jack (4 mm).
16
The Portable ME-System
5.3
Setting Up and Connecting the Portable ME-System
Warning: Please read the separate manuals of all devices before installation, especially the warnings
and safety information. Make sure all devices are switched off before you connect them to the power
supply. Damage to the devices and even fatal injuries may result from improper installation or use.
1. Provide a power supply in the immediate vicinity of the installation site.
2. Place all devices on a stable and dry surface, where the air can circulate freely and the devices are not
exposed to direct sunlight. Set up the computer (with installed MC_Rack program). Set up the MPA8I (one
or two MPA8Is or one μPA16 as described in the “MPA8I Manual” and in “μPA16 and μPA32 Manual").
3. Set up the computer with installed MC_Rack program.
4. Connect the MPA8Is or the μPA16 one or two μPAs16 or one μPA32 to the main unit of the Portable
ME-System. Close all unused inputs with terminal plugs.
5. Connect the USB output connector to a free USB 2.0 port of the data acquisition computer.
6. Connect the main unit to a power outlet of the same electrical system (connected to the same ground /
earth wire) as all other components of the setup, for example, the computer or shielding.
7. Check the power LED on the front panel. It should light up as soon as the power line is connected and
the I / O toggle switch on the rear panel is "On". If not, check the power source and cabling.
8. Connect adapters and electrodes. See preamplifier manual on how to connect the electrodes.
9. Start the MC_Rack program and select the ME-System as the data source. Please see the MC_Rack help
or manual for more details on how to define the data source.
17
6
System Components
6.1
Integrated Filter Amplifiers (FA)
Raw data from the preamplifiers is amplified by a 16- or 32-channel filter amplifier with fixed gain and
bandwidth.
A differential amplifier with input type I includes a common ground and a common reference electrode
input. The reference electrode is ideally identical to the recording electrodes and placed into a comparable
but inactive area or tissue. Background or noise signals that are picked up by both the reference electrode
and the recording electrodes are removed.
The reference electrode input also compensates the potential difference between the miniature preamplifier
(MPA8I) output and the filter amplifier (FA) input that results from the supply voltage drop in the line from
the MPA8I to the FA. If two or more MPA8Is are connected to the FA, the amplifier offsets are averaged for
compensation.
Important: It is very important that the reference electrode inputs are always connected. Connect it
to ground when you are not using a reference electrode.
Signal Amplification and Filters
The filter amplifier combines a band pass filter and the signal amplification in one instrument.
The broad bandwidth of 1 to 5000 Hz is suitable for a broad range of applications, such as spike and field
potential recording from neurons or recording of cardiac signals. The digital filter of the MC_Rack program
can be used to adjust the pass band and filter the raw data. Please see the MC_Rack help or manual for
more information. This way, you are very flexible in designing your experiments. Please note that you may
need a higher sampling rate to avoid aliasing. See also the chapter "Integrated Data Acquisition" for
more information. For slow signals like field potentials, a bandwidth of 1 to 300 Hz is appropriate. If you
like to record fast signals like spikes, a pass band of 300 Hz to 3 kHz is suitable. Cardiac signals have fast
and slow components; therefore, you usually need a wider bandwidth of 1 Hz to 3 kHz.
Please note that the gain of the filter amplifier is a fixed hardware property; and that you cannot change
the gain of the amplifier by software controls. Please also note that the ratio of the output signal to the
input signal, that is, the gain, is not a fixed parameter for the complete bandwidth. The gain that was
specified for the amplifier, for example, 100 (1000 in total with the preamplifier), is not fully reached at the
borders of the amplifier's pass band. The general rule is, that at the lower and upper limit of the frequency
band, the gain is, that is approximately 70 %, of the full gain. Therefore, you should use a bandwidth that
is at a safe distance of the signals of interest. Outside the pass band, the gain decreases with the frequency
and finally approaches zero.
For more information on gain and filters in general, please refer to standard literature or contact your local
retailer.
19
Portable ME-System Manual
6.2
Integrated Data Acquisition
Analog input signals are acquired from the data source and digitized by the 16- or 32-channel analogdigital converter that is integrated into the main unit. Recorded signals are converted in real-time into
digital data streams at sampling rates of up to 50 kHz per channel. You will not miss even the fastest
biological signals. Data is transferred to the computer via High Speed USB 2.0 port.
A 16-bit digital (TTL) input / output channel is available. You can use the digital TTL inputs, for example,
for synchronizing stimulation and recording, or for synchronizing the Potable ME-System with other
systems, video tracking, for example. The digital TTL outputs can be used for triggering other systems
and instruments, for example, for applying a feedback.
The voltage input range of the DAQ is +/- 4 V. with the standard gain of 1000, this means that the signals
can be up to +/- 4 mV in size before getting clipped. Please refer to the MC_Rack help or manual for more
information.
DC Offset Correction
An offset correction is generally not necessary, because the intrinsic DC offsets of the Portable ME-System
is very low in comparison to the signals of interest. You can use the MC_Rack offset correction feature to
remove even this low offset and reset all channels to zero. Please refer to the MC_Rack help or manual for
more information.
Note: If you observe a large offset on any channel(s), you should contact your local retailer for
troubleshooting. The offset correction is not intended for removing large offsets, because the offset
correction will decrease the input voltage range.
Sampling Rate
It is recommended to adjust the sampling rate according to your signals, because the higher the sampling
rate, the bigger the file size will be.
As a rule of thumb, the sampling rate should equal five times the highest signal frequency for a good
digitized representation of the continuous analog signals. If the sampling rate is too low, you will miss
signals and/or see artifacts. For example, this means approximately 15 kHz for spike recording, or 10 kHz
for cardiac signals (which have fast and slow waveform components).
Please note that the sampling rate also depends on the amplifier’s bandwidth. According to the NyquistShannon sampling theorem, the sampling rate should be at least twice the bandwidth of the analog
(hardware) low pass filter, that is 10 kHz sampling rate when using a filter amplifier with a cutoff frequency
of 5 kHz. The 1/2 bandwidth frequency is also called Nyquist frequency. You should not lower the sampling
rate when using a low-pass digital filter. This is the case because the whole amplifier bandwidth is recorded
and then high frequency noise is removed with the digital low pass filter after recording. Frequencies (noise)
that are above half the sampling rate (for example above 2.5 kHz at a 5 kHz sampling rate) will be
transformed into lower frequencies. This is called aliasing. The resulting low-frequency noise passes the
digital low pass filter and increases your noise level. You may ignore these recommendations if saving hard
disk space is more important for your application than the noise level.
Note: The sampling frequency should be at least five times the highest signal frequency and at least twice
the bandwidth of the filter amplifier.
20
System Components
Example:
You have a broadband filter amplifier with a bandwidth of 1 Hz to 5 kHz. The expected signals have
a maximum frequency of 1 kHz. Therefore, you want to filter the data with a digital low pass filter and
a cutoff frequency of 1 kHz. A sampling rate of 5 kHz (five times the highest signal frequency) would
be required for faithfully reproducing the signals, but you should use a sampling rate of at least 10 kHz
because the sampling rate should equal twice the bandwidth of the analog filter, regardless of the digital
filter properties.
If you had an amplifier with a cutoff frequency of 1 kHz instead, no digital filter would be required, and
a sampling rate of 5 kHz would be sufficient.
Software Package
With the high-performance data acquisition and analysis program MC_Rack, you can flexibly manage all
data streams. For example, you can display the raw data of all channels while recording only the raw data
of the channels of interest and the extracted parameters of all channels. This saves computer performance
and hard disk space.
MC_Rack is not limited to special applications, but can be flexibly adapted to a wide range of applications.
The ".mcd" data format is supported by several third party programs for further analysis. You can also
easily convert recorded data to universal formats such as ASCII with the MC_DataTool program.
6.3
Digital Input / Output, System Synchronization
TTL stands for Transistor-Transistor Logic. A TTL pulse is defined as a digital signal for communication
between two devices. A voltage between 0 V and 0.8 V is considered as a logical state of 0 (LOW), and a
voltage between 2 V and 5 V means a 1 (HIGH).
See "Digital IN / OUT Connector" in the Appendix for information on the pin layout.
Warning: A voltage that is higher than +5 Volts or lower than 0 Volts, that is, a negative voltage,
applied to the digital input would destroy the electronics. Make sure that you apply only TTL pulses
(0 to 5 V) to the digital inputs.
Triggering MC_Rack
The digital input accepts TTL pulses. This feature can be used for triggering MC_Rack, for example,
for synchronizing stimulation and data acquisition.
For example, you can connect the Sync Out of a STG (stimulus generator) to one of the digital input bits.
If you use only one instrument for triggering, connect it to bit 0, for example. In MC_Rack, add a Trigger
Detector to your virtual rack, and select the "Digital Data D1" input stream as the Trigger. Select the
appropriate logical state (generally HIGH) for triggering. Mask all unused bits. The standard settings of the
Trigger Detector are for using bit 0.
Please see the documentation on the Trigger Detector instrument and on triggered data in the MC_Rack
help or manual for more details.
21
Portable ME-System Manual
Important: It is recommended to set the duration of a TTL pulse according to the sampling rate. The TTL
pulse must be long enough to cover at least one data point. For example, if you have a sampling rate of
10 kHz, a data point is recorded each 100 μs. Therefore, TTL input pulses must be at least 100 μs long to
make sure that it is detected by the system. MC_Rack will miss some or all pulses if the pulse duration is
shorter.
Please mask unused (not connected) digital input channels in the MC_Rack program to ignore undefined
states of the open inputs that can cause unwanted trigger events. Please see the MC_Rack manual for
more details.
Custom Switch for "Remote-Controlling"
You can connect any device that produces TTL outputs, for example a switch, to one of the digital input
bits. This means you can use a trigger for remote controlling the recording with MC_Rack, or for
synchronizing systems, if the data acquisition computer is not within reach during an experiment.
You can define the time length of the cutouts that are recorded around the trigger event in MC_Rack.
Please note that it is not possible to start the recording of a continuous data file with MC_Rack on a trigger,
but you can start a new data file on the trigger event. Please select the Recorder option "Create New File
On Trigger".
The picture shows a suggested circuit diagram for a switch used for remote controlling. The resistor and
capacitor work as a low-pass filter on the TTL signal and are necessary to reduce ringing of the signal.
Triggering other Instruments
The digital output of the Portable ME-System sends 20 ms TTL pulses (0 V = LOW and 5 V = HIGH).
This feature can be used to apply a feedback triggered by a signal or a parameter stream.
For example, you can connect the Trigger IN of an STG (stimulus generator) to the digital output. You
can also use the digital output for a synchronization of the Portable ME-System with other systems, for
example, for video tracking (provided that the other system of choice is able to receive TTL pulses). Please
see the documentation on the Digital Output instrument in the MC_Rack help or manual for more details.
22
7
Troubleshooting
The following hints are provided to solve special problems that have been reported by users. Most problems
occur seldom and only under specific circumstances. Please check the mentioned possible causes carefully
when you have any trouble with the product. In most cases, it is only a minor problem that can be easily
avoided or solved.
If the problem persists, please contact your local retailer. The highly qualified staff will be glad to help you.
Please inform your local retailer as well, if other problems that are not mentioned in this documentation
occur, even if you have solved the problem on your own. This helps other users, and it helps MCS to
optimize the instrument and the documentation.
Please pay attention to the safety and service information in the separate manuals of the related products
and in the software help. Multi Channel Systems has put all effort into making the product fully stable and
reliable, but like all high-performance products, it has to be handled with care.
7.1
No Computer Connection / No Recording Possible
You cannot establish a connection to the computer. The Portable ME-System channel layout is not available
in MC_Rack. When loading a previously saved virtual rack file, you will get an error message and the
simulator will be started automatically.
Or you get an error message when starting the recording in MC_Rack after a successful computer
connection.
Possible causes:
? The power LED is not lighting. The supply power is not connected or there is a technical problem with
the instrument.
Check the power source and the cable connections. If this does not solve the problem, contact your local
retailer for support.
? The power LED is lighting. The USB port might not support USB 2.0 or might not be working.
Check the USB port. Only full speed USB 2.0 ports can be used. Try another USB 2.0 port.
? You can establish a connection, but get an error message when starting the recording in MC_Rack. The
bandwidth of the USB port is not sufficient for recording. This can be the case if the Portable ME-System is
connected via a USB hub, and a second device that sends or receives continuous data streams, for example
a web cam or USB speakers, is connected to the same USB port.
Connect the Portable ME-System directly to a USB port, not via a hub.
23
Portable ME-System Manual
7.2
Triggering / Digital Input does not Work
You have connected a TTL source (for example, the Sync Out of a stimulus generator) to the digital input
of the Portable ME-System, and configured the virtual rack in MC_Rack for triggering displays or data
acquisition by the TTL source, but you do not see any sweeps.
Possible causes:
? The TTL source does not generate true TTL signals (5 V), or the TTL pulse duration is too short
in combination with the sampling rate, so that the pulse is missed in-between two data points.
The Portable ME-System can only accept TTL signals (CMOS 5 V TTL level) as a digital input stream. The TTL
pulse needs to be optimized according to the sampling rate. Otherwise, a detection of the trigger cannot
be guaranteed.
? The software settings for the Trigger Detector do not match with the hardware configuration.
In MC_Rack, add a Trigger Detector to your virtual rack, and select the Digital Data D1 input stream as the
Trigger. Check the pin layout of the digital IN / OUT connector and make sure that the same bit input that
is connected is selected in the software. (The standard settings of the Trigger Detector are for using bit 0.)
Mask all unused bits. Select the appropriate logical state (generally HIGH) for triggering. Please see the
MC_Rack Help or Manual for more details.
24
8
Appendix
8.1
Technical Support
Please read the chapter "Troubleshooting" of the manual first. Most problems are caused by minor
handling errors. Contact your local retailer immediately if the cause of trouble remains unclear. Please
understand that information on your hardware and software configuration is necessary to analyze and
finally solve the problem you encounter. Please keep information on the following at hand:

Description of the error (the error message text or any other useful information) and of the context in which
the error occurred. Try to remember all steps you had performed immediately before the error occurred.
The more information on the actual situation you can provide, the easier it is to track the problem.

The serial number of the device. You will find it on the backside of the housing. Or you can see the serial
number when starting MC_Rack. Click Edit > Data Source Setup > Data Source. The serial number will be
displayed in the right drop down menu.

The amplifier type and serial numbers of the connected amplifiers. You will find them on the devices.

The operating system and service pack number of the connected computer.

The hardware configuration (microprocessor, frequency, main memory, hard disk) of the connected
computer. This information is especially important if you have modified the computer or installed new
hard- or software recently.

The version of the recording software. On the "Help” menu, click "About" to display the software version.
25
Portable ME-System Manual
8.2
Technical Specifications
26
16-Channel Micro Preamplifier μPA16
The micro preamplifier with 16 electrode inputs μPA16
is connected to the microelectrode probes for providing
the initial tenfold amplification stage. Signal integrity
is safeguarded and noise pick up is significantly reduced
by this preamplifier compared to the use of signal buffers
with gain 1. The μPA16 is equipped with an Omnetics
socket for NeuroNexus probes C16, C32, F16, and CM16.
It has an additional common ground and a reference
electrode input. The reference electrode is ideally identical
to the recording electrodes and placed into a comparable
but inactive area or tissue.
Background or noise signals that are picked up by both the reference electrode and the recording
electrodes are removed. The very high input impedance ensures stable long-term recordings.
16-Channel Micro Preamplifier Inputs
housing
GND
1
3
5
7
9
11
13
15
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
REF
16-Channel Micro Preamplifier Outputs
10
11
19
4
3
2
1
13
12
20
21
Output Connector
22
7
6
5
14
23
24
25
Guide post
Pin 16
Pin 14
Pin 12
Pin 10
Pin 8
Pin 6
Pin 4
Pin 2
Guide post
REF (Reference)
Pin 15
Pin 13
Pin 11
Pin 9
Pin 7
Pin 5
Pin 3
Pin 1
GND (Ground)
9
8
17
16
15
Input Connector Omnetics A79039-001
(NSD-18-DD-GG with 2 guide posts,
female)
18
26
26-Pin HD D-Sub male connector (Harting TB 09 56 200 5615)
Pin
Channel
Pin
Channel
Pin
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
1
3
5
7
9
11
13
15
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
1, 10, 19, 23
GND (Ground)
20, 21, 22
positive supply voltage
24, 25, 26
negative supply voltage
Multi Channel Systems
MCS GmbH
Aspenhaustrasse 21
72770 Reutlingen
Germany
Fon +49-7121-9 09 25- 0
Fax +49-7121-9 09 25-11
© 2014 Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH
[email protected]
www.multichannelsystems.com
Product information is subject to change
without notice.
16-Channel Micro Preamplifier μPA16
Technical Specifications
Type
μPA16
Operating temperature
0 ° to 50 °C
Storage temperature
0 ° to 50 °C
Relative humidity
10 % to 85 % non-condensing
Dimensions (W x D x H)
Length of the cable
ca. 17 mm x 17 mm x 2.5 mm w/o connector
ca. 21 mm x 17 mm x 2.5 mm with connector
1.5 m
Weight
ca. 1.5 g w/o cable
Maximum tensile strength of the cable
20 N
Input connector type
Mating connector type
18-pin dual-row Omnetics NSD series A79039-001, female
Omnetics NPD series (NPD-18-xx-GS with 2 guide posts, male)
Output connector type
26-pin HD D-Sub, male (Harting TB 09 56 200 5615)
Number of amplifier channels
16
Supply voltage
Supply current
± 2.5 V
< ± 15 mA, typically ± 14 mA
Gain
10
Bandwidth
DC to 50 kHz
Input voltage
± 250 mV (with respect to a supply voltage of 2.5 V)
Input impedance
Input capacitance
1 G@ 1 kHz
13 pF
Input noise
typical 1.2 μV RMS (1 Hz to 10 kHz, inputs shortened)
Noise density
en = 10 nV / Hz @ 1 kHz
Output voltage range
± 2.5 V (supply voltage range)
Multi Channel Systems
MCS GmbH
Aspenhaustrasse 21
72770 Reutlingen
Germany
Fon +49-7121-9 09 25- 0
Fax +49-7121-9 09 25-11
© 2014 Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH
[email protected]
www.multichannelsystems.com
Product information is subject to change
without notice.
32-Channel Micro Preamplifier μPA32
The micro preamplifier with 32 electrode inputs μPA32
is connected to the microelectrode probes for providing
the initial tenfold amplification stage. Signal integrity
is safeguarded and noise pick up is significantly reduced
by this preamplifier compared to the use of signal buffers
with gain 1. The μPA32 is equipped with an Omnetics socket
for NeuroNexus probes CM32, F32, HP32, and MRCM32.
When using two μPA32 you can connect the NeuroNexus
probes H64 and HC64. It has an additional common ground
and a reference electrode input. The reference electrode
is ideally identical to the recording electrodes and placed
into a comparable but inactive area or tissue.
Background or noise signals that are picked up by both
the reference electrode and the recording electrodes
are removed. The very high input impedance ensures
stable long-term recordings.
32-Channel Micro Preamplifier Inputs
1
3
5
7
2
4
6
8
9
13 15 17 19 21 23
11
10 12 14 16 18 20
housing
25 27 29
22 24 26 28
Input Connector Omnetics A79023-001
(NSD-36-DD-GS with 4 guide posts,
female)
31 33 35
Pin 1, 35, 36
Pin 2
Pin 3 to 34
GND (Ground)
Reference input
Recording channels
1 to 32
4 Guide posts
30 32 34 36
32-Channel Micro Preamplifier Outputs
1
16
3
2
17
31
32
18
5
4
19
33
Output Connector
34
6
21
20
35
36
9
8
7
22
23
37
38
24
39
10
25
40
12
11
26
27
41
13
28
42
14
29
43
15
30
44
44-Pin HD D-Sub male connector (Harting TB 09 56 300 5615)
Pin
Channel
Pin
Channel
Pin
Channel
Pin
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
1
4
7
10
13
16
19
22
25
28
31
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
2
5
8
11
14
17
20
23
26
29
32
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
3
6
9
12
15
18
21
24
27
30
12, 13, 16, 28, 31, 42
GND
14, 15, 30
positive
supply voltage
29, 43, 44
negative
supply voltage
Multi Channel Systems
MCS GmbH
Aspenhaustrasse 21
72770 Reutlingen
Germany
Fon +49-7121-9 09 25- 0
Fax +49-7121-9 09 25-11
© 2014 Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH
[email protected]
www.multichannelsystems.com
Product information is subject to change
without notice.
32-Channel Micro Preamplifier μPA32
Technical Specifications
Type
μPA32
Operating temperature
0 ° to 50 °C
Storage temperature
0 ° to 50 °C
Relative humidity
10 % to 85 % non-condensing
Dimensions (W x D x H)
Length of the cable
Weight
ca. 20 mm x 25 mm x 3 mm w/o connector
ca. 24 mm x 25 mm x 3 mm with connector
1.5 m
ca. 2 g w/o cable
Maximum tensile strength of the cable
20 N
Input connector type
36-pin dual-row Omnetics A79023-001
(NSD-36-DD-GS with 4 guide posts, female)
Omnetics for example A70001-001
(NPD-36-xx-GS with 4 guide posts, male)
Mating connector type
Output connector type
44-pin HD D-Sub, male (Harting TB 09 56 300 5615)
Number of amplifier channels
32
Supply voltage
Supply current
± 2.5 V
< ± 30 mA, typically ± 26 mA
Input voltage
± 250 mV (with respect to a supply voltage of 2.5 V)
Gain
10
Bandwidth
DC to 50 kHz
Input voltage
± 250 mV (with respect to a supply voltage of 2.5 V)
Input impedance
Input capacitance
n
1 G@ 1 kHz
13 pF
Input noise
typical 1.2 μV RMS (1 Hz to 10 kHz, inputs shortened)
Noise density
en = 10 nV /
Output voltage range
± 2.5 V (supply voltage range)
Multi Channel Systems
MCS GmbH
Aspenhaustrasse 21
72770 Reutlingen
Germany
Hz @ 1 kHz
Fon +49-7121-9 09 25- 0
Fax +49-7121-9 09 25-11
© 2014 Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH
[email protected]
www.multichannelsystems.com
Product information is subject to change
without notice.
Appendix
8.3
Pin Layout Portable ME16-System
MPA8I Input to Portable ME16-System
MPA8I Input (15-Pin D-SUB 15 Connector, female)
Pin
MPA8I Input 1
MPA8I Input 2
Pin
1
GNDP (power ground)
GNDP (power ground)
Pin
9
GNDS (signal ground
GNDS (signal ground)
Pin
2
Channel 1
Channel 9
Pin 10
Channel 2
Channel 10
Pin
3
Channel 3
Channel 11
Pin 11
Channel 4
Channel 12
Pin
4
Channel 5
Channel 13
Pin 12
Channel 6
Channel 14
Pin
5
Channel 7
Channel 15
Pin 13
Channel 8
Channel 16
Pin
6
GNDP (power ground)
GNDP (power ground)
Pin 14
GNDP (power ground)
GNDP (power ground)
Pin
7
GNDP (power ground)
GNDP (power ground)
Pin 15
Positive supply voltage
Positive supply voltage
Pin
Negative supply voltage
Negative supply voltage
8
The channel numbers refer to the recording channel numbers in the MC_Rack program.
Please make sure that you have selected the Portable ME16-Layout in the MC_Rack program.
See the MC_Rack manual or help for details.
27
Portable ME-System Manual
μPA16 Input to Portable ME16-System
μPA8I Input (26-Pin D-SUB Connector, female)
Pin
μPA16
Pin
Pin
2
Channel 1
1, 10, 19, 23
GNDP (power ground)
Pin
3
Channel 3
20, 21, 22
Positive supply voltage
Pin
4
Channel 5
24, 25, 26
Negative supply voltage
Pin
5
Channel 7
Pin
6
Channel 9
Pin 7
Channel 11
Pin 8
Channel 13
Pin 9
Channel 15
Pin 11
Channel 2
Pin 12
Channel 4
Pin 13
Channel 6
Pin 14
Channel 8
Pin 15
Channel 10
Pin 16
Channel 12
Pin 17
Channel 14
Pin 18
Channel 16
The channel numbers refer to the recording channel numbers in the MC_Rack program.
Please make sure that you have selected the Portable ME16-Layout in the MC_Rack program.
See the MC_Rack manual or help for details.
28
Appendix
Digital IN / OUT Connector
68-Pin MCS Standard Connector
Pin 1
GND
Channels bit 0 - 7
Pin 2
GND
Pin 3 - 10
Digital output
Pin 11 - 14
GND
Pin 15 - 22
Digital output Channels bit 8 - 15
Pin 23 - 26
GND
Pin 27 - 34
Digital input Channels bit 0 - 7
Pin 35 - 38
GND
Pin 39 - 46
Digital input Channels bit 8 - 15
Pin 47 - 48
GND
Pin 49 - 63
Not connected
Pin 64 - 66
GND
Pin 67
Positive supply voltage output
Pin 68
Negative voltage supply output
D0 OUT
Digital Out D0
Bit 0 of the 16 bit digital output Channels (Pin 3)
D0 IN
Digital In D0
Bit 0 of the 16 bit digital input Channels (Pin 27)
29
Portable ME-System Manual
8.4
Pin Layout Portable ME32-System
μPA16 Input to Portable ME32-System
μPA16, Input (26-Pin D-SUB Connector, female)
Pin
μPA16, No 1
μPA16, No 2
Pin 2
Channel 1
Channel 17
Pin 3
Channel 3
Channel 19
Pin 4
Channel 5
Channel 21
Pin
5
Channel 7
Channel 23
Pin
6
Channel 9
Channel 25
Pin 7
Channel 11
Channel 27
Pin 8
Channel 13
Channel 29
Pin 9
Channel 15
Channel 31
Pin 11
Channel 2
Channel 18
Pin 12
Channel 4
Channel 20
Pin 13
Channel 6
Channel 22
Pin 14
Channel 8
Channel 24
Pin 15
Channel 10
Channel 26
Pin 16
Channel 12
Channel 28
Pin 17
Channel 14
Channel 30
Pin 18
Channel 16
Channel 32
Pin 1, 10, 19, 23
GNDP (power ground)
Pin 20, 21, 22
Positive supply voltage
Pin 24, 25, 26
Negative supply voltage
30
Appendix
The channel numbers refer to the recording channel numbers in the MC_Rack program.
Please make sure that you have selected the Portable ME16-Layout in the MC_Rack program.
See the MC_Rack manual or help for details.
μPA32 Input to Portable ME32-System
μPA32 Input (44-Pin D-SUB Connector, female)
Pin
Channel
Pin
Channel
Pin
Channel
Pin 1
Channel 1
Pin 17
Channel 2
Pin 32
Channel 3
Pin 2
Channel 4
Pin 18
Channel 5
Pin 33
Channel 6
Pin 3
Channel 7
Pin 19
Channel 8
Pin 34
Channel 9
Pin 4
Channel 10
Pin 20
Channel 11
Pin 35
Channel 12
Pin 5
Channel 13
Pin 21
Channel 14
Pin 36
Channel 15
Pin 6
Channel 4
Pin 22
Channel 17
Pin 37
Channel 18
Pin 7
Channel 16
Pin 23
Channel 20
Pin 38
Channel 21
Pin 8
Channel 19
Pin 24
Channel 23
Pin 39
Channel 24
Pin 9
Channel 22
Pin 25
Channel 26
Pin 40
Channel 27
Pin 10
Channel 25
Pin 26
Channel 29
Pin 41
Channel 30
Pin 11
Channel 17
Pin 27
Channel 32
Pin 12, 13,
16, 28, 31, 42
GNDP (power ground)
Pin 14, 15, 30
Positive supply voltage
Pin 29, 43, 44
Negative supply voltage
The recording channel numbers refer to the channel numbers in the MC_Rack program.
Please make sure that you have selected the USB-ME16-Layout in the MC_Rack program.
See the MC_Rack manual or help for details.
31
Portable ME-System Manual
Digital IN / OUT Connector
68-Pin MCS Standard Connector
Pin 1
GND
Pin 2
GND
Pin 3 - 10
Digital output channels bit 0 - 7
Pin 11 - 14
GND
Pin 15 - 22
Digital output channels bit 8 - 15
Pin 23 - 26
GND
Pin 27 - 34
Digital input channels bit 0 - 7
Pin 35 - 38
GND
Pin 39 - 46
Digital input channels bit 8 - 15
Pin 47 - 48
GND
Pin 49 - 63
Not connected
Pin 64 - 66
GND
Pin 67
Positive supply voltage output
Pin 68
Negative voltage supply output
D0 OUT
Digital Out D0
Bit 0 of the 16 bit digital output channels (Pin 3)
D0 IN
Digital In D0
32
Bit 0 of the 16 bit digital input channels (Pin 27)
Appendix
8.5
Additional Analog Input
Portable ME-System with additional ANALOG OUTPUT for amplified analog data via 68-pin MCS standard
connector.
Rear Panel
Analog signals are splitted between the filter amplifier and the A / D converter. The additional analog
output on the rear panel of the Portable ME-System has the same pin layout as the output of a FA32
(32-channel filter amplifier). Please see pin layout below.
Pin Layout ANALOG OUTPUT
68-Pin MCS Standard Connector
Pin 1
GNDP (power ground)
Pin 2
GNDI (connected to GNDP)
Pin 3 –18
Analog output channels 1 - 16
Pin 19 – 34
Analog output channels 17 - 32
Pin 35 – 66
Not connected
Pin 67
Positive supply voltage output (+5.5 V to +9 V)
Pin 68
Negative voltage supply output (-5.5 V to -9 V)
33
Portable ME-System Manual
8.6
Contact Information
Local retailer
Please see the list of official MCS distributors on the MCS web site.
User forum
The Multi Channel Systems User Forum provides the opportunity for you to exchange your
experience or thoughts with other users worldwide.
Mailing list
If you have subscribed to the General Electrophysiology Mailing List, you will be automatically informed
about new software releases, upcoming events, and other news on the product line. You can subscribe to
the list on the contact form of the MCS web site.
www.multichannelsystems.com
34
9
Index
35
Portable ME-System Manual
A
AUDIO
19
C
Contact Information
35
D
DC Offset Correction
22
DIG IN D 0
19
DIG OUT D 0
19
DIGITAL IN / OUT
19
G
GROUND
19
I
Integrated Data Acquisition
22
Integrated Filter Amplifiers (FA)
21
M
ME Product Line
5
P
Pin Layout μPA16
29
Pin Layout μPA32
32
POWER IN
19
Portable ME16-System
11
Portable ME32-System
15
R
Remote Control
23
S
Sampling Rate
22
Setting up the System
19
Signal Amplification and Filters
21
Software Package
22
System Synchronization
23
T
Technical Support
27
Triggering MC_Rack
23
Triggering Other Instruments
23
U
USB
19
USB-ME16FAI-System
5
USB-ME32FAI-System
5
36
37